Chicago's South Loop neighbourhood continues to grow, with several residential projects currently underway in the area. In late 2015, the City of Chicago approved developers Lendlease and CMK Companies' plan for an eight-building mixed-used complex set to rise on the empty site of the former Grand Central Station, demolished in 1971. Designed by Perkins + Will, Riverline will bring 3,600 residential units to an area bounded by the Chicago River to the west, South Wells Street to the east, West Harrison Street to the north, and West Roosevelt Road to the south. 

Riverline, image via Perkins + Will

Consisting of five skyscrapers, three mid-rise buildings and a variety of townhouses, Riverline is designed to house around 5,000 people across a mix of condominium and rental housing. The tallest tower will stand at 182 metres and 51 floors on the northern section of the lot, and feature a series of inclined support columns soaring from the Chicago River. The buildings' height will gradually decrease as the multi-phase development unfolds to the south — plans also include two 127-metres towers, as well as 98- and 90-metre edifices.

Riverline looking north towards downtown Chicago, image via Perkins + Will

The new 13‐acre riverfront community will be characterized by blue-glass-wrapped buildings with a strong connection to the adjacent Chicago River. Indeed, Riverline will boast a water taxi dock, an 800-metre river walk facilitating the connection of the development with its surroundings, a riverfront amphitheatre, and a kayak launch pad, as well as a retail plaza with 1,400 square metres of commercial spaces and a Hoerr Schaudt-designed park aiming to restore the natural ecosystem of the river.

Riverwalk at Riverline, image via Perkins + Will

Construction of phase one of the project is expected to start early this year, with the launch of a 19‐storey 278‐unit condominium, followed by a 29‐storey 452‐unit edifice and 62 townhouses, all situated on the south end of the site between Taylor Street and West Roosevelt Road. The first phase of development will also include the completion of the river walk along its entire length. The full delivery of Riverline is scheduled for 2025 at the latest. Once complete, the new construction will surround the 1986-built River City Condominiums, the only existing edifice built after the site was cleared more than 40 years ago. 

Riverline looking north towards downtown Chicago, image via Perkins + Will

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